Jemaa el-Fnaa

Djemaa el Fna
Watch spellbinding dance routines, interact with snake charmers and browse the market stalls in this fascinating cultural hub on a central square.

With a lively ambiance and a dynamic market, Jemaa el-Fna is one of the main squares of Marrakech. The plaza dates back to the 11th century and is known for its spectacular range of activities and events. Get a sense of the local culture with some time in this enigmatic and entertaining square.

Listen to the plaza’s storytellers to learn more about the history here. They’ll generally be speaking Arabic dialects, but some may use French or occasionally English. Watch some of the male dancers showing off their routines. Note that it is not considered appropriate for female dancers to perform here. See serpents’ heads rise seductively from baskets at the command of snake charmers and their flutes.

Embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride around the area or sit at a wooden chair in a circle around a musician. Bargain with vendors at the market stalls for different types of food. Certain stalls are for tattoos, while others specialize in snails, juices and other intriguing items. Stay until after sunset, when the activities and music become more active. Dine at one of the cafés and restaurants serving food and drink in the plaza.

Note that the meaning of the name of the square in Arabic is unclear, although it might signify the Mosque at the End of the World or simply the Gathering Area. Some believe it means the Assembly of the Dead, in reference to the public executions held here in the 11th century. Over the centuries, the square has had periods of regression and popularity.

Enter the square for free. It is open at all times. Arrive on any day from morning until midnight for the market and entertainment. Bargain for any purchases and protect belongings from pickpockets. Be prepared to pay tips if you watch performers or take photos.

Jemaa el-Fna is in the historic center of Marrakech. Take a bus to the Arset El Bilk terminal and walk northeast for a few minutes to get here. Visit nearby attractions, such as the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque, the Dar Bellarj souk and the Marrakech House of Photography.

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Reviews of Jemaa el-Fnaa

4.1
Top destination
5 - Excellent
130
" "5 - Excellent 32.663316582914575%
4 - Good
181
" "4 - Good 45.47738693467337%
3 - Okay
71
" "3 - Okay 17.839195979899497%
2 - Disappointing
13
" "2 - Disappointing 3.2663316582914574%
1 - Terrible
3
" "1 - Terrible 0.7537688442211056%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
20 Jan 2020

Be wary of the henna tattoo ladies as they’ll grab your hand and start drawing on it if you don’t stop them, they will then expect to be paid! It’s the same with the snake charmers and people with monkeys(which we stayed clear of as we definitely don’t agree with the animal cruelty), they’ll dump the creatures on you and expect to be paid. Apart from that Fnaa square is ok if you can stand it as its full on!!!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
5 Nov 2019

Take the hotel shuttle bus

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
23 Jul 2019

go in the day time and also at night. great buzz there at night

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
9 Jul 2019

Don't pet the monkeys or pose for pictures with the snakes- both go through torture. Do try fruit juices from the many stands. Don't think eating at one of the food stands at night will be cheap- nothing is free including the bread and we paid what we would have in a restaurant and food was average at best. Do haggle- it's expected and good fun!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveller
26 Jun 2019

Need some English writing around the place

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
19 May 2019

Always haggle and set a price first. Don't be afraid to say 'no thank you' as the sellers will just leave you alone then.

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